LIVERPOOL remain confident of sealing a deal for Daniel Sturridge despite a late hitch leading to the striker's proposed medical today being cancelled.

Sturridge was due on Merseyside to undergo tests and put the finishing touches on a £12m move from Chelsea which would allow him to officially sign when the transfer window reopens on January 1.

However, a late snag thought to be between the player's representatives and Liverpool means the medical has now been called off.

Liverpool have already agreed a fee with Chelsea for the England forward and Sturridge is eager to move to Anfield and kick start his career after finding himself marooned on the periphery at Stamford Bridge.

That will leave manager Brendan Rodgers confident over overcoming the problem, but the present impasse shows Liverpool are willing to play hardball.

Rodgers is also close to a £4m deal for Blackpool's Tom Ince who will return to Liverpool just 18 months after leaving the club when he failed to agree terms on a contract.